Your career in the Netherlands
starts here.

To work as a highly skilled migrant, your employer must be a recognised sponsor approved by the IND. Only companies listed in the official “Public Register Regular Labour and Highly Skilled Migrants” have the legal authority to apply for your residence permit. Verify an employer’s status in this register (which includes thousands of companies such as ASML, Adyen, and Booking.com) before beginning the application process.

Income requirements for highly skilled migrants are updated annually on January 1st. For 2026, the gross SV monthly salary (excluding holiday allowance) must meet:

The agreed salary must also be in line with the market rate for your specific position.

The IND has specific rules regarding what counts towards the gross salary requirement:

Included: Fixed reimbursements and allowances (such as a 13th-month payment) count only if explicitly stipulated in your employment contract and transferred monthly to your bank account.

Excluded: Holiday allowance, wages paid in kind, and uncertain or irregular pay elements such as overtime, tips, or bonus funds.

If you completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at a Dutch institution within the last 3 years, you are eligible for this permit.

Cost: Application fee is €254.

Work rights: Free to work without a separate work permit (TWV), including as employee, intern, or self-employed freelancer.

HSM advantage: Qualifies you for the reduced salary criterion (€3,122) if you transition to a highly skilled migrant visa.

BRP Registration: Register in the Personal Records Database at your local town hall upon arrival.

TB Test: Unless exempt, undergo a tuberculosis test within 3 months of receiving your permit.

Healthcare: Take out Dutch healthcare insurance within 4 months of arrival.

Job loss: If you lose your job, you generally have a maximum of 3 months to find a new position with a recognised sponsor.